Having trees and plants in our yard can instantly transform your curb appeal. However, they don’t last forever. There will come a time when they fall over and need to be removed. After tree removal, you will be left with an unsightly stump on your lawn. You may request a stump grinding service, which may leave a hole and a bare patch of ground.
After all this, it is necessary to restore your lawn to its previous beauty and condition. So, we’re exploring ways to refresh the stump area, get rid of that tripping hazard, and improve the look of your lovely garden.
Remove Wood Chips and Debris
Once the stump is removed, expect a pile of wood debris all over your lawn. The first thing you need to do is clear up all the chips and shredded bits. Make sure to clean the area properly by removing any branches and exposed roots. Some of the tools you need in getting rid of exposed roots are clippers or saws.
You can use the leftover grindings as mulch. Spread the wood chips and rake them into your flower beds. The mulch will keep weeds at bay and deter pests and animals on your landscape. Moreover, you may use the stump grindings to fill the hole left by the stump and add to the nutrients of your soil.
If you’re unsure of the quality of the wood chips, you can turn them into compost. Let them cook and decompose in your compost heap. Simply wait three to four months for the wood fibers to break down and you will have a pile of compost for your garden or potting shed.
Test the Soil
You might not notice it, but the soil can get acidic after tree removal. A soil test is important if you want to replant around the stump area. Testing the soil will let you know the pH balance and the minerals present. You can add several materials like limestone or iron sulfate to balance the soil acidity. In case of a nutrient deficiency, the test will help you determine the amount of fertilizer you need.
Prepare the Soil for Replanting
First, cover the hole with the appropriate amount of topsoil and organic materials like mulch or grass clippings. Pack it down loosely and even it out as the rest of the yard. Next, you need to water the soil and wait for about one week for the soil to settle. If you want to do things right, ask for professional help when it comes to proper techniques and methods on how to properly prepare the soil for replanting purposes.
Sow the Seeds
Once the soil has settled, sow the grass seeds by hand, disperse them evenly, and rake them into the soil. Make that there’s good coverage before adding a quarter-inch of topsoil. You also have a choice to use peat moss as an alternative.
Fertilize to Make Grass Grow
Your turfgrass also needs some care just like new trees. They usually compete with nitrogen-robbing stump remains, so you need several doses of high-nitrogen fertilizer. You need to do this monthly to maintain the nitrogen levels in the ground and allow the grass to get established and thick. If you noticed that the grass has already grown an inch or two, this indicates that it can then be treated the same as the rest of the lawn.
Keep the Soil Well-Nourished and Hydrated
Always be sure to give the stump area some TLC. If you’re planning to replant around the same area, keep in mind that a new and developing tree needs nutrients in order to grow. You can support a growing tree by consistently watering the soil. To keep your lawn moist, you can use a fine mist setting on your sprayer. Just be careful not to overwater and wash the already settled seeds.
Stay Away From the Stump Area
Most tree stumps rob nitrogen and nutrients from the soil, s a new tee will struggle to establish roots. Replanting in the same area also increases the possibility of disease transmission.
To prevent this from happening, you can choose a new planting location not directly on or adjacent to the old stump. As a rule of thumb, a tree hole at least 3 to 15 feet away is a decent distance from the original stump hole.
Use the Area for a New Landscape Feature
Aside from planting grass or trees, you can add garden ornaments and features where the old stump used to be. Add some extra oomph to your lawn with a gorgeous flower bed or outdoor furniture. You may also add a fountain, brass statues, or a picnic table that can turn an eyesore into a fun and beautiful spot for you and your family. These decorations can fill and cover the old stump area. The possibilities are endless!
Don’t Let an Annoying Stump Hole Let You Down
Stump grinding and tree removal should only be done by experienced professionals like Tree Removal Lancaster. We can guide you through the entire process until your lawn looks healthy and good again. You may also turn to us for tree trimming, pruning, and emergency tree service. Talk to one of our arborists for a consultation!